Entrepreneurs are at the heart of economic development, generating jobs and tax revenue for cities, states and national authorities. But the prospect of starting and maintaining a business is full of risk, calling-for a special type of commitment from those intent on being self-employed. Financial matters, in particular, present challenges for entrepreneurs, ranging from generating start-up capital to effectively funding ongoing business operations. Although each business is unique, success is typically measured in profits and job satisfaction, so diverse workers ultimately share the same goals. Fortunately, the path to prosperity is paved with entrepreneurial successes, furnishing a blueprint for effective business management. If you are self-employed or considering an entrepreneurial venture, commit yourself to these important rules for success: Protect Your Financial Reputation To onlookers, your reputation forms the core of your brand image – including how customers and business associates view your professional financial integrity. And since your business probably relies ilow of customers, so a well-conceived line of products and services is essential for long-term viability. For the greatest chance of carrying-on, make sure your business concept speaks to a genuine need. Not only do in-demand goods and services inspire repeat purchases, but you’ll spend less time and money convincing new customers to try your brand. Thorough market research sheds light on consumer habits and guides successful entrepreneurs toward money-making opportunities. A “hopeful” sales approach, on the other hand, leads to stagnant inventory, insufficient demand, and financial failure. Learn Effective Marketing Although the particulars are unique to each business venture, making money typically relies on effective promotion. Without a well-oiled marketing machine, your business faces an uphill climb reaching customers. And in today’s hyper-competitive consumer marketplace, your message must be spread across various forums, including: Social Media – If you expect to compete with savvy marketers, social media figures prominently in your promotions strategy. Use networking sites to make connections and facilitate partnerships, and stay in the public eye by posting engaging content. Industry Publications – Establishing yourself or organization as an expert source within your field can lead to new business. Trade magazines and websites are a great place to put your intellect and expertise on display for those in your niche. Direct Marketing – Direct mail and in-person events establish one-on-one contact with potential customers, so the strategies can be used to generate interest in...

Branching out and becoming self-employed can be both exciting and frightening but worth it for the extra control you can have over your work. You will, however, need to take note of a few things before you get started as there are a few things you need to keep on top of. If you’re currently a self-employed tradesman, or looking to become self-employed, read on for some tips you may want to take on board. Insurance Even though insurance may seem costly, you never know when you might need it. There are many different types of insurance you can take out, so it is important that you choose what is best suited for you. Remember to also insure your tools, equipment, and anything you may use on a regular basis as well. If you are a little bit confused about what type of insurance to take out, contact a specialist such as Tradewise Insurance who will be able to guide you in the right direction. Advertising Word of mouth is considered to be one of the most effective and free methods of advertising. However, if you are finding that work is a little scarcer than you would like, you may want to consider advertising on places like Gumtree, your local newspaper, or even distributing flyers around your local neighbourhood. If you’re just starting out, it may be difficult to get clients if they don’t even know that you exist – advertising can help you get your name and services out there. Service Provision of high quality customer service is paramount when it comes to being self-employed. There are plenty of other tradesmen out there who can take your place in an instant, so it is important to be punctual, and to complete your work to the best of your ability. Build a rapport with your customers, so they will keep you in mind for other jobs they might have and maybe even recommend you to their friends. You never know where putting that extra bit of effort will take you. Accounts Taking care of your accounts may seem boring and time consuming, but it will help you out immensely when it comes to doing your taxes. Make sure you keep strict records of everything you do and keep the receipts and invoices from all your jobs. Put in all...

Entrepreneurs are at the heart of economic development, generating jobs and tax revenue for cities, states and national authorities. But the prospect of starting and maintaining a business is full of risk, calling-for a special type of commitment from those intent on being self-employed. Financial matters, in particular, present challenges for entrepreneurs, ranging from generating start-up capital to effectively funding ongoing...

Branching out and becoming self-employed can be both exciting and frightening but worth it for the extra control you can have over your work. You will, however, need to take note of a few things before you get started as there are a few things you need to keep on top of. If you’re currently a self-employed tradesman, or looking to become self-employed, read on for some tips you may want to take on board. Insurance Even though...

Is it possible for a business to be both profitable and enable positive change? That’s exactly what Scottish whiskey producer Chivas have set out to achieve with their million dollar fund for start-ups. Their recent campaign entitled ‘Venture’ is giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to win a share of the $1 million fund with an innovative start-up idea that aims to use business as a force for good. The most promising...

Yes, money is important when it comes to finding the right career path. However, the security your job offers and the industry it’s in are also important factors to take into consideration. So if you’re after a job that offers more than just a weekly income, but has plenty of options for the future as well, check out the 6 industries below. 1. Government The first industry on this list is government. A highly sought after industry to...

Recent figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimate that the number of unemployed citizens in the US aged 16 or older stands at 92,898,000. Despite creating 295,000 net new jobs in February, figures for those in employment has averaged around 62.9% or lower in 13 of the 17 months since October 2013. In March 1978, the rate of unemployment reached a staggering 63%, making these latest figures the worst seen in 37 years....

Offering several different job roles within the aviation industry, the world’s largest international airline Emirates and dnata plan to hire over 11,000 new staff in 2015. As part of the company’s projected growth across six continents, Emirates are looking to fill thousands of new positions worldwide with assessment events being held in major cities across Australia, UK, USA, Sri Lanka, India and several other countries....